Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Apples and Dried Fruits

In the world of desserts and snacks, oatmeal cookies hold a special place for their wholesome goodness and versatility. These Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Apples and Dried Fruits are not just delicious; they are packed with nutrients, making them a perfect choice for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a sweet treat after dinner. Made with simple ingredients, including oats, apples, and a medley of dried fruits and nuts, these cookies are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by everyone, including those seeking healthier dessert options.

The use of coconut milk adds a subtle creaminess and a hint of tropical flavor, while the spices like cinnamon provide warmth and comfort. This recipe invites creativity—you can add your favorite nuts, substitute fruits, or even tweak the spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome snack to accompany your morning coffee or a healthy treat for your children, these oatmeal cookies are a great option. Let’s explore how to make these delightful cookies step by step!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

To prepare Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Apples and Dried Fruits, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Oat flakes: 100 g (approximately 1 cup)
  • Coconut milk: 100 ml (about 1/2 cup)
  • Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt: A pinch
  • Apples: 2 medium, peeled and grated
  • Almonds: 50 g, roughly chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • Dried apricots: 60 g, chopped into medium pieces (about 1/3 cup)
  • Raisins: 50 g (about 1/3 cup)
  • Lemon juice: From half a lemon
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Honey: Optional, for drizzling over the cookies before serving

Steps on How to Make Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Oat Mixture

  1. Combine Oats and Coconut Milk: In a mixing bowl, combine the 100 g of oat flakes with 100 ml of coconut milk. Stir well to ensure the oats are fully coated with the milk.
  2. Add Spices and Salt: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
  3. Let It Soak: Allow the oat mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This soaking period will help the oats soften and absorb the coconut milk, resulting in a chewier texture for your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit and Nut Mixture

  1. Grate the Apples: While the oats soak, peel and grate the two apples. This will add moisture and sweetness to the cookies.
  2. Chop the Nuts and Dried Fruits: Roughly chop 50 g of almonds and 60 g of dried apricots into medium pieces. This will enhance the texture of the cookies and add additional flavor.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the grated apples, chopped almonds, dried apricots, and 50 g of raisins.
  4. Add Lemon Juice and Olive Oil: Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture, and drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Oat and Fruit Mixtures

  1. Mix Oat and Fruit Mixtures: After the oats have soaked for 10 minutes, add the soaked oat mixture to the bowl containing the fruit and nut mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
  2. Form Cookies: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper. Using a spoon or your hands, form small, thin cookies from the mixture and place them onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
  2. Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Optional Drizzle

  1. Drizzle with Honey: If desired, you can drizzle honey over the cookies before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one cookie (based on making about 10 cookies from this recipe):

  • Calories: 130 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Fat: 4 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 5 g (naturally occurring from the fruits and honey)

These cookies are a good source of dietary fiber, thanks to the oats and dried fruits, and provide essential vitamins and minerals. They are lower in sugar compared to many traditional cookies, making them a healthier choice for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different fruits?

Yes! You can substitute dried apricots with other dried fruits such as cranberries, figs, or dates. Fresh fruits like mashed bananas or blueberries can also be used.

2. What if I don’t have coconut milk?

You can replace coconut milk with any other non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or even regular dairy milk.

3. How do I store these cookies?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Ensure you are using gluten-free oats and other gluten-free ingredients. Check the labels to make sure they are certified gluten-free.

5. Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These cookies are a nutritious treat that kids will love, thanks to the sweetness of the fruits and the fun texture. They make a great addition to school lunches.

Tips for Making the Best Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

  1. Don’t Overmix: When combining the oat mixture with the fruit and nut mixture, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
  2. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, consider adding a bit of maple syrup or brown sugar to the mixture.
  3. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Baking times may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the cookies. Check for doneness at the 30-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
  4. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom to customize the flavor of your cookies.

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week.
  • Freezing: To freeze cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. You can thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion

These Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Apples and Dried Fruits are a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth while enjoying the benefits of wholesome ingredients. They are not only easy to make but also adaptable to suit your taste preferences. With their delightful chewy texture and burst of flavor from the fruits and nuts, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Whether you enjoy them as a healthy snack, a breakfast option, or a light dessert, they bring comfort and satisfaction with every bite. So, gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy your delicious homemade cookies, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family—they’ll surely appreciate this nutritious treat!